Sholkhe Waterfall

The Sholkhe twin waterfall is one of the natural attractions of Paveh County in Kermanshah Province. It lies about 7 km from the city of Paveh, in Ganjgah Valley, along the Paveh–Nowsud road. The waterfall has formed on the slopes of the Shahu mountain range, and because it sits below road level, it remains hidden from many passers-by. Sholkhe is a seasonal waterfall fed by the Sili spring, and its flow depends on the spring's water level and seasonal rainfall. Ganjgah Valley is also one of Paveh's natural and tourist areas. Alongside its many waterfalls and springs, it has forest cover of oak, hawthorn and gall oak, creating a green mountain landscape.

The distinctive feature of Sholkhe Waterfall is that its water drops in two stages. The water first falls from a height of about 30 metres, then after flowing roughly 800 metres, it plunges again from a height of about 50 metres. For this reason it is known as the Sholkhe twin waterfall. Because the waterfall lies below the road and can only be reached on foot, the surroundings have remained largely unspoiled, making a visit appealing to nature lovers. Since Sholkhe is seasonal, it looks its best when the Sili spring is running full, and at that time the Ganjgah Valley, the oak trees and the other vegetation of the area also add to the beauty of the route. A suitable time for visiting this attraction is about 2 to 3 hours, and there is no entrance fee.

To reach Sholkhe Waterfall, take the Nowsud road from the city of Paveh and, after about 7 km, leave the road in the Ganjgah Valley area and walk part of the way. The waterfall lies below road level, so it is not easily seen from the main road. The best time to visit Sholkhe is spring and the period after good rainfall, when the Sili spring is fuller and the waterfall is flowing. Before your trip, it is also best to check that the waterfall is flowing and what the trail conditions are. During your visit, avoid damaging the vegetation, leaving litter in the valley or around the spring and waterfall, and polluting the water sources. To help preserve the area's unspoiled nature, follow the existing paths as far as possible without damaging the environment.